Man killed in Rossville Boulevard hit-and-run

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Chattanooga Police are investigating a fatal hit-and-run involving a man in a motorized wheelchair on Rossville Boulevard.

Police say officers responded around 6:30 p.m. on December 13, 2025, to a report of a pedestrian struck near 3710 Rossville Boulevard.

The crash resulted in a fatality.

According to the Chattanooga Police Department, a 61-year-old man, later identified as Joe Carter, was traveling in a motorized wheelchair in the roadway when he was struck by a green Chevy Suburban.

Police say he was then struck a second time by a silver SUV.

Both vehicles left the scene and have not yet been located.

Mr. Carter was transported to a local hospital, where police say he later succumbed to his injuries.

News 12 was on the scene and spoke with witnesses who asked to remain anonymous.

One eyewitness told News 12 the victim had been inside a nearby bar before the incident.

The witness said patrons heard an initial impact as the man was leaving.

Another bar patron told News 12 they ran outside in an attempt to stop traffic after the first collision.

The witness said a second vehicle swerved around them and struck the man again.

Witnesses also told News 12 they did not hear tires screeching or see signs that the vehicles attempted to slow down before impact.

One patron said the victim had been hit in the area before, though police have not confirmed that information.

The Chattanooga Police Department’s Traffic and DUI Unit is handling the investigation.

Police say the information released is preliminary and subject to change.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Chattanooga Police at 423-698-2525.